THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Trade the city skyline for a high-Andean snowfield on a full-day snowshoe hike into Cajón del Maipo. Expect steep climbing early, expansive snow-covered flats, guided instruction and panoramic views of Cerro El Plomo.
Trade the city skyline for a high-Andean snowfield on a full-day snowshoe hike into Cajón del Maipo. Expect steep climbing early, expansive snow-covered flats, guided instruction and panoramic views of Cerro El Plomo.
A cold wind threads through the pines as the minivan climbs out of Santiago and the city blurs into a canyon of granite and snow. By mid-morning you’re at the trailhead in San José de Maipo, boots packed with rented snowshoes and poles, staring up at slopes that hold the light like a promise. The Maipo River runs below you, daring you to keep pace as the Andes widen into a white arena.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by AndoAndes · San José de Maipo, Santiago Metropolitan Region
A cold wind threads through the pines as the minivan climbs out of Santiago and the city blurs into a canyon of granite and snow. By mid-morning you’re at the trailhead in San José de Maipo, boots packed with rented snowshoes and poles, staring up at slopes that hold the light like a promise. The Maipo River runs below you, daring you to keep pace as the Andes widen into a white arena.
Cajón del Maipo has long been a corridor between coastal valleys and high Andean basins—Miners and indigenous travelers used these passes centuries ago. Geologically the canyon is young and steep: uplifted metamorphic rock and glacially scoured cirques frame views of Cerro El Plomo, an iconic granite peak that anchors the skyline.
Local culture is straightforward and service-oriented: small mountain towns like San José de Maipo supply guides, shelters and hearty food. On this guided winter route expect a steep first hour—about 600 meters of altitude gain—followed by easier, flatter walking across packed snowfields. Guides fit snowshoes, set the pace and break for a box lunch with local wine where views permit.
Practicalities: the tour operates in Chilean winter (June–September), requires moderate to strong fitness, and accommodates up to 12 people. Bring waterproof trekking boots, layered insulation, sun protection, and a small daypack. Weather can flip quickly—check forecasts, know pickup times from Santiago, and accept that conditions or cancellations may happen for safety. For experienced hikers the terrain is rewarding; for first-timers it’s an immersive introduction to high-Andean winter walking.
No technical mountaineering experience is required; participants should have good fitness for sustained uphill walking and be comfortable in cold conditions.
Yes—snowshoes and trekking poles are included; the operator also offers clothing rental if needed at the meeting point.
Hotel pickups are available from Santiago neighborhoods (Providencia, Las Condes, etc.); confirm exact pickup time with the supplier—plan for an early start and a full day away from the city.
Tours operate only in safe conditions; the operator may cancel or alter the itinerary for heavy snow, storms or safety concerns and will offer alternatives or a refund per the cancellation policy.
AndoAndes operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
A cold wind threads through the pines as the minivan climbs out of Santiago and the city blurs into a canyon of granite and snow. By mid-morning you’re at the trailhead in San José de Maipo, boots packed with rented snowshoes and poles, staring up at slopes that hold the light like a promise. The Maipo River runs below you, daring you to keep pace as the Andes widen into a white arena.
A cold wind threads through the pines as the minivan climbs out of Santiago and the city blurs into a canyon of granite and snow. By mid-morning you’re at the trailhead in San José de Maipo, boots packed with rented snowshoes and poles, staring up at slopes that hold the light like a promise. The Maipo River runs below you, daring you to keep pace as the Andes widen into a white arena.
Cajón del Maipo has long been a corridor between coastal valleys and high Andean basins—Miners and indigenous travelers used these passes centuries ago. Geologically the canyon is young and steep: uplifted metamorphic rock and glacially scoured cirques frame views of Cerro El Plomo, an iconic granite peak that anchors the skyline.
Local culture is straightforward and service-oriented: small mountain towns like San José de Maipo supply guides, shelters and hearty food. On this guided winter route expect a steep first hour—about 600 meters of altitude gain—followed by easier, flatter walking across packed snowfields. Guides fit snowshoes, set the pace and break for a box lunch with local wine where views permit.
Practicalities: the tour operates in Chilean winter (June–September), requires moderate to strong fitness, and accommodates up to 12 people. Bring waterproof trekking boots, layered insulation, sun protection, and a small daypack. Weather can flip quickly—check forecasts, know pickup times from Santiago, and accept that conditions or cancellations may happen for safety. For experienced hikers the terrain is rewarding; for first-timers it’s an immersive introduction to high-Andean winter walking.